The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

The birth of a baby is a wonderful yet very complex process. Many physical and emotional changes occur for mother and baby.

A baby must make many physical adjustments to life outside the mother’s body. Leaving the uterus means that a baby can no longer depend on the mother’s circulation and placenta for important physiologic functions.

What is the neonatal intensive care unit?

Newborn babies who need intensive medical attention are often admitted into a special area of the hospital called the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The NICU combines advanced technology and trained health care professionals to provide specialized care for the tiniest patients. NICUs may also have intermediate or continuing care areas for babies who are not as sick but do need specialized nursing care. Some hospitals do not have the personnel or a NICU and babies must be transferred to another hospital.

Some newborn babies will require care in a NICU, and giving birth to a sick or premature baby can be quite unexpected for any parent. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and equipment in the NICU can be overwhelming.

Who will care for your baby in the NICU?

The following are some of the specially trained health care professionals who will be involved in the care of your baby:

• Neonatologist. A paediatrician with additional training in the care of sick and premature babies.The neonatologist supervises pediatric fellows and residents, nurse practitioners, and nurses who care for babies in the NICU.
• Respiratory therapists
• Dietitians
• Lactation consultants
• Pharmacists
• Hospital chaplains